Get away from it all and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature under the shade of the catalpa trees in this two bedroom cabin in scenic Calhoun County. The Watkins Place is private and secluded with access to the hiking trails at the McCully Heritage Project. Amenities include a full kitchen, coffee maker, refrigerator, all kitchen utensils, towels and linens and board games. There is no TV reception, internet or phone service.

Stone Bridge Valley Art Center includes an art studio offering open studio time and classes, an art gallery with featured artists, and a gallery boutique with art by local and regional artists available for purchase.

Step back in time to simpler days at White Tales Lodge. Nestled in the beautiful and remote hills of Calhoun County, the lodge has a warm and inviting atmosphere and is surrounded by some of the most unforgettable landscapes in the Midwest. Enjoy hunting packages in season or design your own weekend getaway with the family. Outdoor cooking facilities are available as well as an indoor kitchen, dining room, game room and sleeping accommodations.

Located on the Mississippi River on the southern tip of Calhoun County, Kinder's No Wake Inn is the perfect spot for a panoramic view of the river. Serene beauty is what you will experience in your visit to the Inn. Uniquely decorated rooms will add some delight to your stay. Each room has its own outside seating and a large patio with terraced landscaping. Rooms have coffee pots, microwaves and refrigerators.

This quaint general store offers an array of of jams, syrups, bbq sauces, coffees and and grocery items as well as greeting cards, unique gifts and antiques. Open Wednesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.

Southern rock favorite Lynyrd Skynyrd will be performing at Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater this summer. With a catalog of over 60 albums, sales beyond 30 million worldwide and their beloved classic American rock anthem “Sweet Home Alabama” having sold over two million ringtones, Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Lynyrd Skynyrd remain a cultural icon that appeals to multiple generations.

"Simply delicious" pastries and desserts that are sure to please every palate. Whether you are looking for a little taste of Europe, delicious coffee & tea, or cookies like grandma made (with just a little panache) you will find them at LuciAnna's Pastries. Come & relax in our warm inviting atmosphere.

Located in the heart of Grafton, Tree Tops is perfect for a family getaway or a stay-cation with your besties. With a queen sized bed and two twin beds, this cozy cottage is designed for four. Tree Tops boasts breathtaking views of the Mighty Mississippi from the private deck and shared patio below. Tree Tops is a second level guest house equipped with all the bells and whistles you've come to expect from a Loading Dock property.

Live music venue and pub with full bar. Two stages and an extensive sound system accommodates a variety of live music and entertainment ranging from original songwriters, local talent and regional acts. Open F & S 4 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

This upscale cottage was designed with comfort and fun in mind. Perfect for families or singles. The Guest House sleeps up to 6 with one king size bed and 4 twin size bunks. A full kitchen and large living room make for a relaxing stay. The Fish Market is small pet friendly with a fenced-in side garden.

There will be an abundance of delicious fresh produce, crafts, baked goods, plants & flowers, locally-raised hormone-free meat, handmade soaps, jewelry, artwork, pottery, art demonstrations and more at the Alton Farmer's and Artisans' Market. Admission is free for shoppers and there is plenty of parking at its new permanent location in the city-owned parking lot at the corner of Landmarks and Henry Street. The Alton Farmer's & Artisans' Market is every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Natural clay materials are molded and crafted right before your eyes into creative, functional stoneware pottery. Choose from a wide variety of handmade pieces to enjoy in everyday settings or as decorative objects. A popular item are the ceramic fish. Actual fish that have been caught on a hook and line are used to create a mold and clay is used to reproduce a likeness of the fish. After firing, the clay is glazed and natural or artistic colorations are applied. The finished piece is a unique one of a kind piece - a reminder of the one that did not get away! Open Wednesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday and Monday, noon to 4 p.m.

We're proud to be considered the region's best outdoor bar and grill, with the best scenic view, at the end of the best scenic drive. Our majestic view is not to be missed. Watch the river roll by while listening to live entertainment. Our full menu features something for everyone...don't miss our famous Dock Salsa! Be sure to stop by the fourth weekend of the month March - October for the Riverside Flea Market featuring over 60 local vendors. Let us host your next party! We cater events of all sizes...from reunions and receptions to birthdays and bridal showers. Keep the fun going at one of our four Loading Dock Guest Houses, perfect for an intimate getaway or an all night get-together.

Cruise the river, learn its history, and view its geographical features during the River Rambler Tours on the Hakuna Matata, a 49-passenger all weather tour boat. The first level of the boat is fully enclosed with large windows and is seasonally air-conditioned and heated. The upper deck is a huge open air patio offering 360 degree views of the river and surrounding bluffs. Tours set sail from the Grafton Harbor. Admission is $18/adults, $16/seniors, $9/children ages 3-7, $4.50 for children 2 and under.

Racing enthusiasts of all kinds will find special events around every hair pin from the drag strip, oval, road racing track, National sanctioned carting track as well as concerts and corporate functions. Former race car driver Curtis Francois brought back the track and the NHRA Midwest Nationals. Don't miss many of the other events that are held through the year.

A bit off the beaten path, Straight Home Bar and Grill is well worth the effort to find it. The daily lunch specials are out of the ordinary and can run the gamut from crab alfredo entrees to chicken and dumplings to barbeque pork steak. There is no breakfast despite the early opening. But steak entrees are featured every Friday and Saturday. Hours: Monday - Thursday, 8:30 a.m. - 1 a.m., Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 2 a.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. - 2 a.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. - 2 a.m.

Eagle watch in style with binoculars from Piasa Photo. This full service camera shop offers binoculars for rent for the avid bird watcher as well as a complete line of camera equipment for the amateur and professional photographer. Hours: M-F 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., S 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Take a ride along the many bicycle trails around Alton with a bike from Wild Trak Bikes. The shop features new and used bicycles including road bikes, mountain bikes, comfort bikes and children's bikes. Service is also available for all bikes makes and models. Hours: T - F 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., S 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

In the mood for a "Shoot Out" filet mignon? How about a "Cowboy" on your dinner plate? Steaks, fish, ribs and pasta are among the many entrees available at Doc Holliday's Saloon & Eatery located in Cottage Hills (between Alton and Bethalto). This full-service bar and restaurant carries out the western theme with its menu offerings from Doc's Smoked Ribs to the OK Corral Sirloin. For smaller appetites, pizza and sandwiches are also available. Hours: Daily 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. The bar is open until 2 a.m. Su - F and 3 a.m. on Saturday.

Breakfast is served all day in this Mexican-style restaurant which boasts some of the hottest hot sauce in the area. Don't miss the Sunday buffet which is popular among locals and visitors alike. Open 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Sunday.

This is the place where biker's dreams come true. The showroom is packed with new Harley Davidson motorcycles, licensed apparel, jewelry, gifts, and a wide range of motorcycle parts and accessories. There is also a large inventory of used motorcycles and a complete service department on site. This is the region's premier Harley Davidson store! Open M - F 9 a.m. - 7 p.m., S 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Su 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The locals call it one of the best kept secrets in Wood River. Phil's Bar and Grill features a steakhouse-quality pepper loin, which is a hit with customers. Sandwiches, barbeque, seafood, cheese steaks, fish and chips and hamburgers are also on the menu. This family-friendly establishment is open Monday - Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Combine gourmet burgers with a sharp bar atmosphere and you will have the Pump House Bar and Grill. The signature Pumpjack Burger is a great "go-to" burger with pepper jack cheese, onion jam, tomato jam and banana peppers. Sides are as fresh as the burgers and sandwiches. Hours: Daily 11 a.m. - 10 a.m. Bar is open until 2 a.m.

Take a step back in time with a visit to this diner which was opened in the 1940's in Jerseyville. Customers come from throughout the bi-state region just for the huge servings of onion rings, which are hand-breaded and fried to perfection. The regulars are friendly and sure to recommend the best menu items for those who don't know what to order. Don't leave before trying one of their homemade pies! Hours: T - S 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. Su 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Senior Services Plus’ School House Grill offers a selection including a daily special, a soup and salad bar, as well as a variety of grill options. The School House Grill is an option for any age and is open to the public. Come join us for breakfast or lunch. Daily lunch specials include our own chef's creations and "GET FIT" meal items.

For some of the best Sicilian-style, thin-crust pizza around, look no further than Mike's Pizza and Pasta in Jerseyville. Known for the Margherita Pizza, a nice veggie-style pie, they also offer thick and deep dish pizza delights. Full menu of pasta selections as well. Open Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. - 9 p.m., Friday - Saturday, 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. and Sunday 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Looking for fresh, hot and substantial Mexican-American food? If you are in Jerseyville, then stop by Los Tres Amigos. Boasting some of the more authentic Mexican food in the area, the fried tacos are a signature offering. Hours: Sunday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. and Friday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Try the "Big Mac" pizza at JR's Place in Hartford and you'll be hooked. This signature pizza tastes just like it's famous namesake burger, but in pizza form. The menu is for those adventurous diners who like to step outside the box when they eat. The kitchen closes early on Saturdays and is not open on Sundays.

Built in 1929, this old-fashioned country hotel has every room decorated differently. Enjoy the rich colors of Calhoun County and the Illinois River at this quaint country inn. Reservations are required.

There is something for everyone at this whimsical antique/craft store. Primitive and country home decorations, hard-to-find vintage items and antiques are among the merchandise. A country store is also incorporated and features Amish honey among other items. Hours: Monday - Friday, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. First Sunday of the month Noon to 4:00 p.m.

Geno's 140 Club in Bethalto is a great place to have lunch or dinner. The original owners began Geno's in 1942. The same traditions of excellent food and friendly service were begun on their opening day and have continued. Famous for our steaks, stromboli and salads, Geno's 140 Club has a wide menu that has something for everyone. Pasta and sandwiches are offered alongside steak and chicken entrees, with generous portions to satisfy the appetite. Venture out to Bethalto for your next meal at Geno's 140 Club. We'll be happy to see you and you'll be glad you came.

Chances are if you are looking for that hard to find antique piece, State Street Antiques/Jim's Attic in Jerseyville may have it. This warehouse sized store is crammed full with a treasure trove of merchandise from antique children's toys to furniture, glassware and more. Open Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, Noon - 4 p.m.

If it's a burger and fries you want as you eagle watch or relax by the Illinois River, then this is the place to go. It's not a drive in but a sit down restaurant in spite of the name. Enjoy a homemade dessert or ice cream at the end of your meal and relax in this restaurant by the river. Hours: S - Th 7:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. F - S 7:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Awesome homemade soups made daily at this little family-style diner which offers a larger, more varied menu than many bigger restaurants. One-of-a-kiind sandwiches include gyros, corned beef, and breaded tenderloin. Breakfast is also served. Billed as a "must" stop for anyone in the Wood River area. Hours: Daily 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Looking for that perfect adult toy? Midwest Motor Sports has 20,000 square feet of two and four wheel motorcycles and ATV's as well as personal watercraft. In addition to the huge showroom, the store features a test tank for test runs of watercraft. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Wednesday and Friday. 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

For a quick bite or a full meal, Mulligan's West in Jerseyville has a wide range of menu options. Appetizers feature "rattlers", "zingers" and "pig tails" with homemade sauces. Salads, sandwiches, steaks, seafood and pasta are also featured menu items. Hours: Open daily 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Full bar which stays open until 1 a.m. Free live music once a month on Saturdays.

Welcome to S & S Sandwich Shop of Alton - North Alton’s only independently owned sandwich shop. Our goal is to provide fresh, quality, seasonal food fare at a great value. Every attempt is made to use only local products in our menu items. We currently serve sandwiches, soups and salads prepared by our chefs. Our daily specials change often to exploit the best of each season.

One of the premiere glassware antique shops in the area, My Antique Store features high quality items for the serious glass collector. Depression glass, Fostoria, milk glass, amethyst glass, crackle glass, carnival glass and stoneware are among the many pieces found as you explore room after room of glassware filled shelves. Costume jewelry and silverplate flatware is also available. Open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Fran and Marilyn's is a small town diner with a big menu and even larger portions. Famous for their tasty, yet simple home cooked meals. The homemade pies are their signature dessert and customers often purchase a whole pie as they leave. Hours: Monday - Saturday, 5 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Sunday, 6 a.m. - 8 p.m.

If you have a craving for sweet potato chips, fried chicken, brisket, and fritters in generous portions, then this riverside restaurant is where you need to go. This is the place all the locals go when they want a great meal at a reasonable price. Order a whole fresh pie to take home for a late night snack. You'll be glad you did! Hours: Su - Th 7:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. F -S 7:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Craving a little south of the border sizzle? Casa Romero Mexican Restaurant & Cantina boasts some of the most authentic Mexican dishes in the area. Casa has the standard Mexican tacos, enchiladas, burritos and chimichangas. But step out a little with the Fiesta Seafood Nachos or the Tequila Fiesta Shrimp. Also known for their margaritas. Hours: Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m., Friday, 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. and Saturday, Noon - 10:30 p.m.

Quilting supplies, customized embroidery and everything in between can all be found at Dora's Spinning Wheel. This shop also offers gifts from salt lamps to soy candles and jewelry. Hours: Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Whether you are just getting started in the motorcycle scene with a sport bike or an experienced rider with a chopper, Biker Brother Leather Company offers high quality road clothes and customized leather motorcycle gear. From wallets to chaps, bike seats to touring bags, there is something for everyone who desires fine quality leather items. Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Nice, casual, family-oriented diner with the great food you expect from smaller restaurants. Known for their chicken and dumplings, cabbage rolls and burgers as well as their juicy, large chicken wings. Open daily from 5:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Kampsville Landing offers two things at once: great homestyle cooking for those who want to eat out and a convenience store for those who just want to grab a snack. This family-style restaurant is located on the Illinois River. Hours: M - Th 6 a.m. - 8 p.m., F-S 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

A book-lover's paradise, Second Reading Book Shop in historic downtown Alton, features rare, unique and first-edition books in all genres. Lightly used modern novels are also available. Local author and store proprietor John Dunphey offers writing workshops in addition to hosting occasional special guests including area authors, musicians and speakers. Hours: Monday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Ravanelli's is a family restaurant known for their pressure fried chicken and great Italian food. They have a huge menu with generous portions, and their food is made with only the freshest ingredients.

The original Wood River Sports Bar, Donzo's offers family-friendly dining options as well as a full service bar. Daily specials and even better specials when the Cardinals play the Cubs! Watch your favorite sporting event while you dine. Open daily 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.

Unique home decor, gifts, florals and accessories are among the many pieces offered in vignette settings at Josephines Ltd. Gift Shop. The gift shops are in the original house, once part of Monticello College that was founded in 1838. The gift shops are adjacent to the renowned Josephines Tea Room. Gift Shop Hours: Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A major list of appetizers highlight the menu at Magnums Bar and Grill. Also on the menu: sandwiches, a variety of steak dinners, ribs, frog legs and a unqiue array of open faced dinner sandwiches. Hours: Monday - Saturday, 11:30 a.m. - 9:45 p.m. and Sunday, Noon - 8:45 p.m.

This family-owned restaurant has become a staple of fine-dining in our community. Our warm, intimate atmosphere, combined with the love and dedication put into every dish we serve, continues to provide us with what brings our family the greatest satisfaction: happy, loyal patrons. Whether it be our delicious selection of Greek dishes which have been handed down from generation to generation, or our selection of both modern and classic fine-dining staples, we strive to ensure that every dish leaving our kitchen is of the absolute highest quality. It is our hope that you may come, eat, and enjoy yourselves to the fullest. OPA!

Hazel2blue, inc. is a women’s fashion boutique that targets the late teen young women to the fashion savvy 40 something. H2B as slightly edgy, with a splash of vintage, sprinkled with a lot of class. Current brands: Tulle, Lucca Couture, Willow & Clay, Nation, Amour Vert, Sanctuary, DL1961 Denim, Sold Design Lab, and Threads 4 Thought basics, to name a few. They have a little bit of everything for the modern woman, including you!

Home of the $5 pizza on Mondays and 25-cent wings on Wednesday, the Franchise Sports Bar and Grill is an upscale sports bar that is also family friendly. Varied menu which ranges from catfish sandwiches to shrimp/lobster ravioli to ham and beans with cornbread. Hours: Monday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - midnight and Sunday, noon - Midnight.

Once known as the local "calaboose", the Brussels Jail was built around 1876 and centered in the heart of the village. The jail mainly housed men overnight for drinking too much and the last person to stay in the jail was in 1952. The jail is open seven days a week.

Antiques, crafts and collectibles are the main stays of this mini mall. Consignments are also welcomed. Many booths are available featuring a wide array of items. Also look for the collectible books on hand. Hours: Tuesday - Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Thursday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Whether you are in Jerseyville for business or pleasure, be sure to check out the Jerseyville Harvest Inn. This motel is conveniently located in the middle of the business district and is located on U.S. 67 and near Illinois Route 16. Amenities include in-room microwave, refrigerator, free Wi-fi, and free Continental breakfast.

Enjoy food in either the quieter dining room or the lounge, with a long bar, pool table and a 50” TV. Listen to live music and DJs. Special discounts for senior citizens. Check out Taco Tuesdays, wings on Mondays, wine-down Wednesdays or all-you-can eat fish on Fridays or chicken on Sundays.

Catfish fritters and fried chicken are the specialties for this riverside restaurant. In the winter, view the eagles flying over the Illinois River as you enjoy some of the best fried fish and homecooked meals in Calhoun County. The Barefoot Restaurant is also famous for its ample food portions. Hours: T - Su 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Located inside one of America’s oldest country stores, the Golden Eagle Music Hall or "The Eagle" is a perfect setting to enjoy "the very best" in entertainment. Just a short drive from Alton, IL along "The Great River Road."

This is a shop dedicated to the preservation of the art of quilting. From its 1800's reproduction quilting fabric available for sale to sharing the craftsmanship of quilting with customers, keeping the spark of this craft alive is the life force behind this cozy, friendly shop. Heirloom quilt patterns also available. Hours: Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Need a bicycle tune-up before you hit the local bike trails? Medford Bicycle & Sporting Goods in Jerseyville is the place to go. All types of bicycle repairs and accessories are available at this one-stop shop. New and used bicycles can be purchased. There is also a wide selection of sporting goods needs from helmets to ball bats, knee pads to practice jerseys. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

During your stay in the area come and lose your everyday stresses at Along the Way guesthouse. It offers alternative accommodations for travelers. It is your home away from home where you will experience gracious mid-western hospitality. Three suites available.